In a striking development that intertwines politics, religion, and business, former Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt has taken on advisory roles with companies linked to the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church. This comes shortly after he left parliament, raising questions about the intersection of public service and private enterprise, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hunt’s involvement with these companies has surfaced amid scrutiny of the Brethren’s growing influence within the Liberal Party, particularly during the recent federal elections. The church, often described as a “cult” by critics, has a significant business presence, boasting over 3,000 companies globally.
The Rise of the Brethren
The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, founded in the early 19th century, has long been a subject of controversy. Known for its strict adherence to religious doctrine, the church imposes significant restrictions on its members, including prohibitions on socializing with outsiders and limitations on women’s roles within the community. Those who leave the church often face ostracism, a practice that has drawn criticism from former members and public figures alike.
Despite these controversies, the Brethren have cultivated a robust business network, particularly in Australia and New Zealand. Their recent political activities, including substantial donations to the Liberal Party, have brought them into the spotlight, prompting calls for greater transparency regarding their influence on electoral processes.
Hunt’s Transition to Advisory Roles
After stepping down from his ministerial role in May 2022, Hunt began working with Connected Global, a company whose owners are closely associated with the Brethren. This company, along with others linked to the church, has secured lucrative government contracts for COVID-19 supplies, raising eyebrows about potential conflicts of interest.
During his tenure as health minister, Hunt was instrumental in shaping Australia’s response to the pandemic. His advisory role with Connected Global began shortly after he left office, leading to questions about the timing and nature of his new position. A spokesperson for Hunt has stated that he had no prior dealings with the companies while in office and emphasized that all procurement decisions were made by the Australian public service.
Political Donations and Electoral Influence
The Brethren’s involvement in the political arena has intensified scrutiny of their financial contributions to the Liberal Party. Reports indicate that members of the church have made significant donations, including a notable $115,000 from Voltex Electrical Associates just days before the 2022 federal election. This company is linked to the Brethren, with family ties to church leadership.
Jerome Laxale, chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters, expressed concerns about the Brethren’s financial influence, stating that their activities felt like an “assault on democracy.” He highlighted the extraordinary amounts of money spent in certain electoral seats, raising alarms about the integrity of the electoral process.
Grassroots Campaigning and Community Engagement
Despite traditionally discouraging political participation, Brethren members were reportedly mobilized to volunteer for Liberal campaigns during the last election. This unprecedented level of engagement raised eyebrows, particularly given the church’s historical stance on voting. Critics, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, questioned the sudden enthusiasm of Brethren members for political activism, suggesting that there may be underlying motivations for their involvement.
Laxale noted that the coordinated efforts of Brethren volunteers in his electoral district were unlike anything he had experienced before, indicating a well-organized campaign strategy. Reports also surfaced of Brethren members acting as scrutineers for the Liberal Party during vote counting, further blurring the lines between church and state.
The Brethren’s Charitable Endeavors
In addition to their political activities, the Brethren have established charitable organizations, such as the Rapid Relief Team (RRT), which has garnered praise from various political figures, including Angus Taylor and former Prime Minister Tony Abbott. The RRT has been involved in community support initiatives, contributing millions to aid efforts across Australia.
While some view these charitable efforts as a means to bolster the church’s public image, others argue that they serve to strengthen ties with political leaders, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both parties.
Conclusion
The intertwining of Greg Hunt’s post-political career with the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church raises significant questions about the ethical implications of such relationships. As the church continues to exert influence in Australian politics, the need for transparency and accountability becomes increasingly critical. The upcoming parliamentary inquiry into the Brethren’s electoral activities may shed light on the extent of their influence and the potential ramifications for Australian democracy.
